A metal roof can be an excellent option for practically any home for a number of reasons beyond merely aesthetics. Ever increasing in residential roofing popularity, metal roofs provide unparalleled durability and longevity as compared to their asphalt or Spanish tile counterparts. With the right maintenance and a little luck, the metal roof you contract today may very well be the last roof you’ll ever need to buy. Of course, metal roofs are not for everyone. And as you should with any major home improvement project, you’ll want to weigh the metal roofing pros and cons before ever signing on the dotted line. Let’s take this opportunity to outline some of the more common advantages (and yes, disadvantages) to metal roofs.
Metal Roof Advantages
Indeed there are many advantages to covering and protecting your home with a metal roof and it’s certainly a worthwhile investment for a homeowner wanting to look beyond asphalt or Spanish tile options. Here are just a few of the advantages of metal roofs:
Durability
If it’s the durability you’re looking for, then a metal roof might be just what you need. Modern metal roofs are built tough and designed to withstand even the most brutal of weather conditions. Hail, snow, rain, and violent wind are no match for a well-constructed metal roof. Most metal roof owners cite remarkable durability as the top metal roof perk.
Longevity
While no one can say with complete certainty how long a roof will last, a well-constructed metal roof is sure to outlast any asphalt roof exposed to the same elements. In fact, most metal roof warranties are for upwards of 20 years with some going as much as high as 50. And we’ve seen metal roofs even older than that that are still in excellent working condition.
Energy Efficiency
While asphalt shingles tend to absorb heat, turning your home into a dry sauna all summer long, metal roofs reflect heat away from your living quarters. During summer months when your air conditioner is cranking, the mere presence of a metal roof can help cut your utilities bill down by as much as 25 percent.
Maintenance
Like any roof, your metal roof will require periodic maintenance in order to keep it looking pristine and performing admirably. Fortunately, unlike complex and expensive asphalt roof maintenance, metal roof maintenance is both simple and cost-effective.
Metal Roof Disadvantages
Of course there are some avenues in which a metal roof might not be the best option (not many, but some). While the advantages certainly outweigh the disadvantages, you will want to read up on both and choose the option that works best for your needs and your budget. That being said, here are some things to consider before going all in on a metal roof.
Affordability
Perhaps the biggest drawback to a metal roof over a traditional asphalt shingle roof is the upfront cost. But keep in mind, while metal roofs are more expensive, they last substantially longer and require far less maintenance costs. So the difference in out of pocket costs spread out over the life of your roof may not be as drastic as it appears at first glance.
Color Match
While you might only have a few color options for asphalt shingles, you’ll have plenty of vibrant options for your new metal roof. But keep in mind, if repairs need to be done down the line, it may be hard to find an exact color match. And rectifying this can be time-consuming and pricey.
Noise
It probably won’t surprise you to know that rain or hail hitting metal is going to cause a bit of noise from time to time. While it’s probably something you’ll tune out over time, you may not wish to wait that long. If it is going to be a big drawback, your roofing company may be able to add additional insulation or sheathing to help minimize the noise (at an additional cost, of course).
Dents
As sturdy as they are, metal roofs are still prone to denting if hit by a large object like a tree branch or heavy hailstone. While small dents won’t affect the roof’s performance, they’re still somewhat of an annoyance. Fortunately, most dents and blemishes can be repaired by trained professionals.
All in all, we are still very much in favor of metal roofs and the advantages certainly outweigh the disadvantages. But still, you’ll want to take a good hard look at the metal roof pros and cons before making any final decisions. Remember, your roof is going to last decades, so you need to be happy with your selection. If you’d like to learn more about metal roofing options, or would like an estimate for your own home, contact the metal roof experts at CWC Roofing.